15 Slow Cooker Thanksgiving Recipes for Busy Cooks

15 Slow Cooker Thanksgiving Recipes for Busy Cooks

Slow Cooker Turkey Breast

slow cooker turkey breast recipe

Slow Cooker Turkey Breast is a fantastic way to enjoy a tender, juicy turkey without the stress of tending to an oven. This dish is perfect for Thanksgiving gatherings, allowing you to free up oven space for other dishes while still serving a delicious main course that will impress your guests.

Ingredients Quantity
Turkey breast 4-6 pounds
Olive oil 2 tablespoons
Garlic, minced 4 cloves
Onion powder 1 teaspoon
Dried thyme 1 teaspoon
Dried rosemary 1 teaspoon
Salt 1 teaspoon
Pepper 1/2 teaspoon
Chicken broth 1 cup
Fresh parsley (for garnish) Optional

Cooking Instructions:

  1. Rub the turkey breast with olive oil and season all sides with garlic, onion powder, thyme, rosemary, salt, and pepper.
  2. Place the seasoned turkey breast in the slow cooker and pour chicken broth around it.
  3. Cover and cook on low for 6-8 hours or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F.
  4. Once cooked, let it rest for about 10-15 minutes before slicing.
  5. Garnish with fresh parsley before serving.
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Creamy Slow Cooker Mashed Potatoes

slow cooker creamy mashed potatoes

Creamy Slow Cooker Mashed Potatoes are a perfect side dish for your Thanksgiving meal, offering a rich and velvety texture that pairs wonderfully with turkey and gravy. This dish combines simplicity and flavor, allowing you to set it and forget it while you focus on other preparations for the holiday feast.

Ingredients Quantity
Potatoes, peeled and cubed 3 pounds
Unsalted butter 1/2 cup
Cream cheese 8 ounces
Chicken broth 1 cup
Milk 1/2 cup
Garlic powder 1 teaspoon
Salt 1 teaspoon
Pepper 1/2 teaspoon

Cooking Instructions:

  1. Place the cubed potatoes in the slow cooker and add the chicken broth, garlic powder, salt, and pepper.
  2. Cover and cook on low for 6-8 hours or until the potatoes are tender.
  3. Once cooked, add the butter and cream cheese to the slow cooker and mash until creamy.
  4. Stir in the milk to reach your desired consistency.
  5. Serve warm and enjoy your creamy mashed potatoes!
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Maple Glazed Carrots

maple glazed slow cooker carrots
Ingredients Quantity
Carrots, peeled and cut 2 pounds
Maple syrup 1/4 cup
Unsalted butter 2 tablespoons
Brown sugar 1 tablespoon
Salt 1/2 teaspoon
Pepper 1/4 teaspoon
Fresh thyme (optional) 1 teaspoon

Cooking Instructions:

  1. Place the peeled and cut carrots in the slow cooker.
  2. In a small bowl, mix together the maple syrup, melted butter, brown sugar, salt, and pepper.
  3. Pour the maple mixture over the carrots and toss to coat evenly.
  4. Cover and cook on low for 4-5 hours, or until the carrots are tender.
  5. Stir in fresh thyme before serving for added flavor. Enjoy your delicious maple glazed carrots!
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Slow Cooker Green Bean Casserole

slow cooker green bean casserole

Slow Cooker Green Bean Casserole is a classic Thanksgiving side dish that combines the fresh taste of green beans with creamy soup and crispy fried onions. This comforting and flavorful casserole is perfect for a stress-free holiday meal, as it cooks effortlessly in your slow cooker, allowing you to focus on other dishes.

Ingredients Quantity
Fresh green beans, trimmed 2 pounds
Cream of mushroom soup 1 can (10.5 oz)
Milk 1/2 cup
Soy sauce 1 tablespoon
Black pepper 1/4 teaspoon
Fried onions 1 1/2 cups
Grated cheddar cheese (optional) 1 cup

Cooking Instructions:

  1. Place the trimmed green beans in the slow cooker.
  2. In a bowl, mix together cream of mushroom soup, milk, soy sauce, and black pepper; pour this mixture over the green beans.
  3. Stir to combine, then cover and cook on low for 3-4 hours until the green beans are tender.
  4. About 30 minutes before serving, stir in half of the fried onions and top with the remaining onions. If using, sprinkle cheese on top and cover until melted.
  5. Serve hot and enjoy your creamy, delicious green bean casserole!
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Savory Stuffing With Sausage

hearty sausage stuffing recipe

Savory Stuffing with Sausage is a hearty and flavorful side dish that can elevate any Thanksgiving feast. This dish combines diced bread with savory sausage, aromatic herbs, and vegetables, all cooked to perfection in a slow cooker. The result is a deliciously moist stuffing that absorbs all the rich flavors, making it a perfect accompaniment to turkey or any festive meal.

Ingredients Quantity
Italian sausage, casings removed 1 pound
Onion, chopped 1 medium
Celery, chopped 2 stalks
Garlic, minced 2 cloves
Dried thyme 1 teaspoon
Dried sage 1 teaspoon
Chicken broth 3 cups
Diced bread (cubed) 8 cups
Black pepper 1/2 teaspoon
Salt 1/2 teaspoon
Fresh parsley, chopped (optional) 1/4 cup

Cooking Instructions:

  1. In a skillet, cook the Italian sausage over medium heat until browned. Drain excess fat and set aside.
  2. In the same skillet, sauté the onion, celery, and garlic until softened.
  3. In a large bowl, combine the bread cubes, cooked sausage, sautéed vegetables, thyme, sage, chicken broth, salt, and pepper. Mix well to combine.
  4. Transfer the stuffing mixture to the slow cooker and cover.
  5. Cook on low for 4-6 hours until heated through and flavors meld.
  6. If desired, stir in fresh parsley before serving for added flavor. Enjoy your savory stuffing!
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Cranberry Sauce With Orange Zest

cranberry orange zest sauce

Cranberry Sauce with Orange Zest is a delightful and refreshing condiment that adds a burst of flavor to your Thanksgiving meal. This delightful dish combines tart cranberries with bright orange zest and juice, creating a perfect balance of sweet and tangy notes. Simmered in a slow cooker, this sauce is simple to prepare and will enhance any roasted turkey or festive spread.

Ingredients Quantity
Fresh cranberries 12 ounces
Granulated sugar 1 cup
Orange juice 1/2 cup
Orange zest 1 tablespoon
Ground cinnamon 1/2 teaspoon
Ground ginger 1/4 teaspoon
Water 1/4 cup

Cooking Instructions:

  1. Rinse the cranberries and remove any stems.
  2. In the slow cooker, combine cranberries, granulated sugar, orange juice, orange zest, ground cinnamon, ground ginger, and water.
  3. Stir everything together until well mixed.
  4. Cover and cook on low for 4-5 hours, stirring occasionally, until the cranberries burst and the sauce thickens.
  5. Allow to cool before serving. Enjoy your homemade cranberry sauce!
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Slow Cooker Sweet Potato Casserole

slow cooker sweet potato casserole

Slow Cooker Sweet Potato Casserole is a warm, comforting side dish that elevates any Thanksgiving feast. This delicious casserole features creamy mashed sweet potatoes mixed with brown sugar and topped with a crunchy pecan streusel, all prepared effortlessly in a slow cooker. Perfectly sweet and satisfying, it’s sure to become a favorite at your holiday table.

Ingredients Quantity
Sweet potatoes 3 pounds
Unsalted butter 1/4 cup
Brown sugar 1/2 cup
Eggs 2 large
Milk 1/2 cup
Vanilla extract 1 teaspoon
Ground cinnamon 1/2 teaspoon
Ground nutmeg 1/4 teaspoon
Salt 1/4 teaspoon
Chopped pecans 1 cup
Granulated sugar 1/4 cup
All-purpose flour 1/4 cup

Cooking Instructions:

  1. Peel and chop the sweet potatoes, then place them in the slow cooker. Cook on high for 4-5 hours or until tender.
  2. Mash the sweet potatoes in the slow cooker. Add butter, brown sugar, eggs, milk, vanilla extract, cinnamon, nutmeg, and salt; mix until smooth and well combined.
  3. In a separate bowl, combine chopped pecans, granulated sugar, and flour to create the topping.
  4. Sprinkle the pecan mixture evenly over the sweet potato mixture in the slow cooker.
  5. Cover and cook on low for an additional 1-2 hours until the topping is golden and crispy. Serve warm and enjoy!
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Garlic Herb Mushroom Gravy

rich garlic herb gravy

Garlic Herb Mushroom Gravy is a rich and flavorful accompaniment that can elevate your Thanksgiving feast. Perfect for drizzling over mashed potatoes, turkey, or stuffing, this creamy gravy infused with garlic and herbs is effortlessly made in a slow cooker. It’s a savory addition that will have everyone coming back for more.

Ingredients Quantity
Fresh mushrooms 16 ounces
Unsalted butter 1/4 cup
Garlic cloves 4, minced
All-purpose flour 1/4 cup
Vegetable broth 3 cups
Heavy cream 1 cup
Dried thyme 1 teaspoon
Dried rosemary 1 teaspoon
Salt 1/2 teaspoon
Pepper 1/4 teaspoon

Cooking Instructions:

  1. In the slow cooker, combine sliced mushrooms and minced garlic with melted butter.
  2. Sprinkle the flour over the mushroom mixture and stir to coat.
  3. Add vegetable broth, heavy cream, thyme, rosemary, salt, and pepper; stir to combine.
  4. Cover and cook on low for 4-5 hours or until the mushrooms are tender and the gravy is thickened.
  5. Stir well before serving and adjust seasoning to taste. Enjoy your delicious Garlic Herb Mushroom Gravy!
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Roasted Brussels Sprouts With Bacon

savory brussels sprouts side dish

Roasted Brussels Sprouts with Bacon is a delightful side dish that brings a savory and crispy twist to your Thanksgiving table. The combination of tender Brussels sprouts, crispy bacon, and a touch of balsamic vinegar creates a flavor explosion that complements turkey and other holiday favorites. Best of all, this dish can be prepared effortlessly in your slow cooker, allowing you to free up the oven for other dishes.

Ingredients Quantity
Brussels sprouts 2 pounds
Bacon 8 slices
Olive oil 2 tablespoons
Balsamic vinegar 1 tablespoon
Garlic powder 1 teaspoon
Salt 1/2 teaspoon
Pepper 1/4 teaspoon

Cooking Instructions:

  1. Trim and halve the Brussels sprouts and place them in the slow cooker.
  2. Cook the bacon until crispy, then crumble it and add it to the Brussels sprouts.
  3. Drizzle with olive oil and balsamic vinegar, then sprinkle with garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Toss to combine.
  4. Cover and cook on low for 4-5 hours or until the Brussels sprouts are tender and caramelized.
  5. Stir well before serving and enjoy your Roasted Brussels Sprouts with Bacon!
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Slow Cooker Corn Pudding

creamy slow cooker corn pudding

Slow Cooker Corn Pudding is a creamy and comforting side dish that is sure to be a crowd-pleaser at your Thanksgiving feast. This delightful casserole features a sweet and savory blend of corn, eggs, and milk, resulting in a custard-like texture that pairs perfectly with turkey and other holiday dishes. Plus, making it in a slow cooker keeps it warm throughout the day, allowing you to focus on other preparations.

Ingredients Quantity
Canned corn 2 cans (15 oz each)
Cream-style corn 1 can (15 oz)
Eggs 3 large
Milk 1 cup
Sugar 1/4 cup
Cornmeal 1/2 cup
Baking powder 1 teaspoon
Salt 1/2 teaspoon
Pepper 1/4 teaspoon
Butter (melted) 1/4 cup

Cooking Instructions:

  1. In a mixing bowl, combine the canned corn, cream-style corn, eggs, milk, sugar, cornmeal, baking powder, salt, and pepper. Mix well until all ingredients are thoroughly combined.
  2. Stir in the melted butter until fully incorporated.
  3. Pour the mixture into the slow cooker and spread it evenly.
  4. Cover and cook on low for 4-5 hours or until the pudding is set and a knife inserted in the center comes out clean.
  5. Once done, let it cool for a few minutes before serving and enjoy your delicious Slow Cooker Corn Pudding!

Pumpkin Spice Latte Oatmeal

cozy pumpkin spice oatmeal

Pumpkin Spice Latte Oatmeal is a warm and cozy breakfast dish that perfectly captures the flavors of fall. It combines creamy oatmeal with the rich taste of pumpkin puree, aromatic spices, and a hint of coffee, making it an ideal start to your Thanksgiving morning. The slow cooker method ensures that it’s ready when you are, allowing you to enjoy a deliciously spiced meal without the hassle.

Ingredients Quantity
Rolled oats 1 cup
Pumpkin puree 1 cup
Milk 2 cups
Brewed coffee 1 cup
Brown sugar 1/4 cup
Pumpkin pie spice 1 teaspoon
Salt 1/4 teaspoon
Vanilla extract 1 teaspoon

Cooking Instructions:

  1. In the slow cooker, combine rolled oats, pumpkin puree, milk, brewed coffee, brown sugar, pumpkin pie spice, salt, and vanilla extract.
  2. Stir the mixture well to combine all ingredients evenly.
  3. Cover and cook on low for 6-8 hours or until the oats are tender and creamy.
  4. Once cooked, stir before serving and garnish with additional pumpkin pie spice or nuts if desired. Enjoy your delicious Pumpkin Spice Latte Oatmeal!

Slow Cooker Apple Crisp

slow cooker apple dessert

Slow Cooker Apple Crisp is a delightful dessert that brings together tender, spiced apples topped with a buttery oat crumble. This comforting treat is perfect for Thanksgiving, capturing the essence of the season with its warm flavors and inviting aroma. Using a slow cooker makes it a breeze to prepare, allowing you to enjoy this sweet indulgence with minimal effort while focusing on other holiday preparations.

Ingredients Quantity
Apples (peeled, sliced) 6 cups
Brown sugar 3/4 cup
Cinnamon 1 teaspoon
Lemon juice 1 tablespoon
Rolled oats 1 cup
All-purpose flour 1/2 cup
Butter (melted) 1/2 cup
Salt 1/4 teaspoon
Nutmeg 1/4 teaspoon

Cooking Instructions:

  1. In a bowl, toss the sliced apples with brown sugar, cinnamon, and lemon juice, then transfer to the slow cooker.
  2. In another bowl, mix rolled oats, flour, melted butter, salt, and nutmeg until crumbly. Sprinkle over the apple mixture.
  3. Cover and cook on low for 4-6 hours or until the apples are tender and the topping is golden.
  4. Serve warm, optionally with vanilla ice cream or whipped cream. Enjoy your Slow Cooker Apple Crisp!

Mixed Berry Fruit Compote

mixed berry fruit compote recipe
Ingredients Quantity
Mixed berries (fresh or frozen) 4 cups
Granulated sugar 1/2 cup
Lemon juice 2 tablespoons
Cornstarch 1 tablespoon
Water 1/4 cup
Vanilla extract 1 teaspoon
Cinnamon (optional) 1/4 teaspoon

Cooking Instructions:

  1. In the slow cooker, combine the mixed berries, sugar, lemon juice, cornstarch, water, and vanilla extract. Stir gently to combine.
  2. Cover and cook on low for 2-3 hours, stirring occasionally, until the berries have broken down and the mixture has thickened.
  3. If desired, sprinkle with cinnamon for added warmth and flavor before serving.
  4. Serve warm or chilled, perfect as a topping or a standalone dessert. Enjoy your Mixed Berry Fruit Compote!

Cheesy Slow Cooker Scalloped Potatoes

creamy cheesy potato dish

Cheesy Slow Cooker Scalloped Potatoes are a comforting and creamy side dish perfect for Thanksgiving gatherings. This dish features layers of tender sliced potatoes smothered in a rich cheese sauce, all cooked to perfection in a slow cooker, making it an ideal recipe for freeing up oven space during the busy holiday season.

Ingredients Quantity
Russet potatoes (peeled & sliced) 4-5 large
Shredded cheddar cheese 2 cups
Heavy cream 2 cups
Milk 1 cup
Garlic powder 1 teaspoon
Onion powder 1 teaspoon
Salt 1 teaspoon
Pepper 1/2 teaspoon
Fresh parsley (optional, for garnish) 2 tablespoons

Cooking Instructions:

  1. In a greased slow cooker, layer half of the sliced potatoes, then sprinkle with half of the cheese.
  2. In a mixing bowl, combine heavy cream, milk, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper, then pour half of this mixture over the layered potatoes.
  3. Repeat with the remaining potatoes, cheese, and cream mixture.
  4. Cover and cook on low for 4-6 hours, or until potatoes are tender and the cheese is bubbly and golden.
  5. Garnish with fresh parsley before serving. Enjoy your Cheesy Slow Cooker Scalloped Potatoes!

Slow Cooker Pumpkin Soup

creamy spiced pumpkin soup

Slow Cooker Pumpkin Soup is a warm and soothing dish that’s perfect for Thanksgiving gatherings. This creamy, spiced soup is made with pureed pumpkin, aromatic vegetables, and warming spices, all slow-cooked to develop deep flavors. It’s an excellent starter that not only highlights the season’s favorite squash but also keeps your oven free for other holiday dishes.

Ingredients Quantity
Canned pumpkin puree 2 cans (15 oz each)
Onion (chopped) 1 medium
Carrots (diced) 2 medium
Garlic (minced) 3 cloves
Vegetable broth 4 cups
Coconut milk or heavy cream 1 cup
Ground cinnamon 1 teaspoon
Ground nutmeg 1/2 teaspoon
Salt 1 teaspoon
Pepper 1/2 teaspoon
Fresh parsley (optional, for garnish) To taste

Cooking Instructions:

  1. In the slow cooker, combine chopped onion, diced carrots, minced garlic, pumpkin puree, vegetable broth, ground cinnamon, nutmeg, salt, and pepper.
  2. Stir well to mix all ingredients thoroughly.
  3. Cover and cook on low for 6-8 hours or on high for 4 hours until the vegetables are tender.
  4. Before serving, stir in the coconut milk or heavy cream for added creaminess.
  5. Garnish with fresh parsley if desired, and enjoy your Slow Cooker Pumpkin Soup!

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Hi! I’m Emily. I’m a cozy‑kitchen tinkerer turning everyday ingredients into crave‑worthy plates—quick sizzles, bright flavors, and zero fuss, always with a smile. Playlist on, whisk in hand, I chase comfort that tastes a little sparkly and a lot homemade—playful, practical, and unapologetically delicious.